Page 21 - CIJ April 2025- Digital Edition
P. 21
COVER STORY
Since 2020, HVAC systems and air
circulation are in the spotlight. The idea
that airborne pathogens could circulate
through ducts was a wake-up call for many
industries.”
Keshab Chopra
Customised Solutions The cleaning process itself can The challenge lies in matching
vary: some ducts are cleaned the cleaning method to the type
“Different industries have every three months, while others of debris: dry particles might
different demands,” Chopra go untouched for over 15 years. respond to brushing or suction, but
explains. In automotive plants, The nature of the debris — greasy, greasy deposits need wet chemical
undesirable air movement oily, dry, or powdery — depends solutions.
during assembly — particularly entirely on the environment and “Automotive plants today have
around sensitive electronics — operations within. advanced electronics built into
makes duct hygiene critical. In “Unfortunately, there is their assembly lines,” says Chopra.
metalworking units, welding no standardisation,” he says. “Any disruption from welding
fumes accumulate over time, “Cleaning intervals vary widely, fumes or uncontrolled particulates
while in food and pharma, the risk depending on awareness levels can cause line failures.”
is microbial, or particulate based. and risk tolerance.”
Primitive Methods to
Robotic Precision
While technology has taken
great strides, Chopra reveals that
disturbing practices still exist at
the fringes: “There are still places
where children are made to crawl
into ducts with cloth or makeshift
drill brushes. It is not only
dangerous, but also ineffective.”
At the other end of the
spectrum, companies like
Consergy deploy robotic systems
to ensure thorough cleaning with
minimal human intervention.
These systems include motorised
brushes, extraction mechanisms,
and even remotely operated
cleaning bots akin to drones that
navigate through the ducts.
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